I leave the campsite for Mont St-Michael in the morning. The weather is a little misty and as the road turns the Mont comes into view. It is so spectacular I shout aloud. I park on the causeway and walk into the site. I’m surprised by the endless touristy shops and restaurants at the bottom of the climb inside the walled city. I ignore them and get my free ticket to enter the Abbey. There are several little viewing points on the way up. The views are great. The tide is about 3 hours from full, so a lot of the sand is exposed, and looks beautiful. The area is very green with grasslands and trees. There are sheep grazing on the approach.
I enter the Abbey, which is beautifully crafted. I have read that it is very difficult to build such a large structure on such a small rock, so it is a credit to the many craftsmen who have contributed over the hundreds of years that the Abbey has stood here. I wander through the many rooms of the Abbey, finding lots of surprising rooms with beautiful orange and yellow light finding its way in through windows and doorways. The area is too crowded with Tourists which makes it a nicer experience. Afterward I have a customary cup of tea in the van whilst I work out where to go. I decide on St Malo.
I arrive at St Malo, an important port and a haven for sailors, old and new. I park well outside of the citadel, which is not geared for large vehicles, and walk in. It is a lovely place, but I find myself with little catching my attention. My guidebook says the nearby hostel (2km) is very popular and busy. Although this would be a good place to meet others, I do not think I will find much to do around here. The weather is still gloomy and I want some sunshine and waves. I check my guidebook and I’m surprised and disappointed to find little else in Brittany is tempting me. I know if the weather where sunny I could wander around, but it is not. So I decided to head south, to Carnac. I head off. As I drive the weather improves greatly and becomes very warm and sunny.
I arrive at Carnac, and it is nice to see the calm seas. I find a recommended campsite which is nice. Tomorrow I’ll see the standing stones. I remember the surfing guide to Europe book I have, and read about surfing in France. I’m getting exciting about finding a nice surfing beach.
I think the prop shaft bearing on my van is deteriorating. I have been cruising at 60mph to reduce fuel consumption and this will help to relieve the strain on the transmission. It is also a nice speed to cruise at and to see the countryside, which is beautiful. With that said the van is working perfectly.
